Winter Pests
We are all used to seeing ants, bees and wasps in the summer months and we tend to think that pests just disappear over the winter, but that is far from the case. In this article we will take a look at which unwanted visitors are likely to find your home irresistible this Winter.
Mice and Rats
Although there are rodents around throughout the year, there is a much higher chance that they will enter your home during the winter due to it being much colder outside and food being more scarce. One way of preventing them is to keep the outside of your home clean and clear of rubbish and food debris. This will mean that they aren’t as attracted to your property. Make sure all your windows, doors and walls are in good condition. Ensure any cracks and gaps around pipes are sealed so there is no way in. Finally keep your kitchen clean of food debris and don’t leave food lying around. Pay special attention to your eaves and roof spaces, these makes lovely warm nesting places for rats and mice.
Squirrels
This is the time of year we see a huge increase in calls to assist with squirrels which have entered lofts. As with rats and mice, it is important to keep them outside by ensuring the structure of your property is good and trees, climbing plants and shrubs etc are kept away from the roofline.
Cockroaches
You won’t see too many of these outside in the winter as they are drawn to the warmth of indoors over the winter months. Preventing cockroaches is very similar to preventing rats and mice. Make sure that your property is properly sealed and also keep it clear of rubbish and food debris both inside and out.
Spiders
As with all the other pests, spiders will migrate into your home over the winter as it is nice and warm for them. To prevent spiders, you really need to cut off their food source which tends to be other pests like flies. So, control the flies and the spiders have no food. Also make sure to remove any webs as soon as you see them and try to gentle catch and relocate the spider outside, or for the more squeamish, vacuuming the area around the web might be a preferable but less humane option.
Fleas
Now fleas are normally associated with the summer, but, because our homes are nice and warm, they are more than capable of living over the winter months inside. Fleas love temperatures from 21°C to 29°C and that happens to be a comfortable temperature for us too. It is important, if you have pets that you don’t stop their flea treatment over the winter. In addition, make sure to vacuum thoroughly on a regular basis and wash your pet’s bedding frequently.
Bedbugs
Christmas is a time of year when lots of us travel and stay in other homes, hotels or other accommodations. Travel is a prime cause of spreading bedbugs, so we recommend a quick check of bed frames, mattresses and nearby areas upon arrival for any signs of bedbug activity, to reduce the chances that you might take some unwanted hitchhikers home with you after a festive break!
Winter Pests
Pests, as you can see, aren’t just a nuisance in the summer, they are also a real pain in the winter. In fact, given how scarce food is and how warm your home is, there is every chance they will be even more tempted to move in with you.
Winter Pest Control
If you have concerns about pest activity in your home this winter we would be delighted to help. We provide an efficient, friendly pest control service in and around Northampton, Daventry, Towcester, Wellingborough, Kettering, Olney, Rugby, Market Harborough and the surrounding areas and villages. You can call us on 01604 328545 or email [email protected] or complete this short form and we will get back to you as soon as we can.